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World's Largest Inland Delta
Okavango Delta: History & Culture
The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Botswana where the Okavango River spreads across the Kalahari to create a maze of lagoons, channels and palm-fringed islands teeming with wildlife. It is one of Africa’s best safari destinations, and the best time to visit is May to October, with floodwaters peaking from June to August.
Most rivers end at the sea. The Okavango does not. Rain that falls in the Angolan highlands travels roughly a thousand kilometres south, then fans out over the flat Kalahari sands and slowly evaporates or soaks away. The result is a shimmering wetland that swells each year, even while the surrounding land is bone dry. That seasonal pulse is what draws elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles and hundreds of bird species to the water.
The delta suits different travellers at different times of year. Here is how the seasons compare:
The floodwaters arrive in Botswana from around March and April and reach their peak between June and August, while the skies stay clear and rain-free. This is the classic safari window: mokoro trips and boat safaris are at their best, and wildlife concentrates around the permanent water. It is also the busiest and most expensive time, so book well ahead.
The rains bring lush scenery, dramatic skies, newborn animals and outstanding birding, often at lower prices. Expect heat, humidity and some roads becoming difficult. It suits birders, photographers and travellers on a tighter budget.
The delta is home to the Big Five and much more. Look for elephant herds crossing the channels, red lechwe and sitatunga antelope wading through the shallows, hippos in the lagoons and lions patrolling the islands. Botswana is also one of the best places in Africa to see the endangered African wild dog.
Most visitors fly into Maun Airport (MUB), which has connections from Johannesburg and other regional hubs. From Maun, small charter aircraft carry you to camps in the heart of the delta in 20 to 45 minutes, giving you spectacular views on the way. Self-drive and mobile safari routes to areas such as Moremi and Khwai are also possible for well-prepared travellers.
Accommodation ranges from intimate luxury tented camps on private concessions to simple mobile camps and budget-friendly guesthouses in Maun. Botswana follows a low-volume, high-value tourism model, so camps inside the delta are generally at the premium end of the market. Use the booking links at the top of this page to check stays near Okavango Delta.
The Okavango Delta is in northern Botswana, in the North-West District. The town of Maun is the main gateway, and the delta lies to its north and west.
May to October is the best time for most visitors. The floodwaters peak from June to August, when water-based activities are at their best, and game viewing is excellent as animals gather around the water.
Yes. It was inscribed in 2014 and became the 1,000th site on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Most travellers fly into Maun Airport (MUB), then take a light-aircraft transfer to a camp inside the delta. Some camps and mobile safaris are reachable by road from Maun.
It is one of the world’s largest inland deltas: the Okavango River flows in from Angola and spreads across the Kalahari sands instead of reaching the sea, creating a vast oasis for wildlife.
A mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe. A poler stands at the back and guides you quietly through shallow channels, giving close, calm views of birds, frogs and the odd elephant on the banks.
The delta is a malaria-risk area, especially in the wetter, warmer months. Speak to a doctor or travel clinic before you travel.
South African passport holders do not currently need a visa for short tourist visits, but rules change, so check with the Botswana immigration authorities before you go.
Photo by Eric Kilby, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Mokoro canoe safaris, Moremi Game Reserve, Chief's Island, Khwai Concession, Jao Concession, Nxai Pan, Walking safaris, Scenic flights
Heritage & Landmarks
Glide silently through papyrus-lined channels in a traditional dugout canoe, guided by a local poler.
Elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, wild dog and hippo thrive on the delta's islands and floodplains.
Inscribed in 2014 as the 1,000th World Heritage Site, protecting one of Africa's great wetlands.
See the delta's maze of lagoons and islands from above on a light-aircraft flight out of Maun.
Where to Stay
Nokanyana (Roots & Journeys), Khwai, Okavango Delta Excellent 4.6/5 lodge in Khwai (Okavango Delta), 127 km from Maun. 10 rooms. From USD 399/night. Property Details Type: Lodge Guest Rating: 4.6/5 (Google, 42 reviews) Price Range: USD 399 per night Rooms: 10 Amenities Swimming pool, Main area (The Hub), Fire pit, Solar power with charging points,...
Maun Lodge, Maun Very good 4.2/5 lodge in Maun, Okavango Delta. 140 rooms. Property Details Type: Lodge Guest Rating: 4.2/5 (Google, 1191 reviews) Rooms: 140 Amenities Air conditioning, En-suite bathrooms, Satellite TV, Tea and coffee facilities, In-room safe, Fridge, Free WiFi, Swimming pool, Gym, Restaurant, Bar, Conference facilities (up to 500 delegates), Airport transfers, Parking,...
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